"Our Father in Heaven, we are assembled in your presence, as we welcome the president and vice -president of these blessed United States. We pray that on the wings of so valiant an election victory, they may soar even higher into the most valued vistas of respect and peace.
As we are on a threshold of a new era, we feel certain that they shall be leaders who make an indelible imprint on lives and history. For they execute their duties with a dedication that may be compared to burning lenses that intensely concentrate all elements of being into one fiery purpose. Marching to a goal and assuming a purpose may not free from struggle, but it kindles a dynamic tempo which motivates the march toward self fulfillment. We pray for the entire world which is in turmoil; plagued by terrorism, hatred and bloodshed.
Many countries are experiencing growing pains. We must prevent their tumbling into self-destruction before they even have a chance to mature. We must stop their stumbling into oblivion just as they approach the edge of understanding. For they
are at a critical age; having attained the freedom that comes with self knowledge; but has not escaped the danger of half-knowledge; of reckless use of power; of selfish, unchecked proliferation of conflict. Education, relief and discipline can still win the race against catastrophe.
We pray that we may recognize and teach that freedom is not the right to do what you choose; but rather the responsibility to choose to do what is right. May we appreciate and teach that happiness is not a pleasure preserved in the pantry of the past, nor a promise packaged in the freezer for the future. It is today; it is both an attitude and an attainment. It is a blend of gratitude, and contentment. It is your smile upon us Oh, G-d amen."
These poetic words of Rabbi Milton Balkany express the hopes and concerns of the American people at a time of uncertainty and fear about the future of peace and prosperity in our times.
